Letter: Alaska would benefit from open primaries

Posted: November 22, 2013 - 1:06am

Alaska’s system of political primaries insures that only the most radical candidates will advance to November’s elections. Both major parties choose the candidates who are skilled at raising money and scaring and angering voters — and who often don’t have a clue about how to govern.

Due to our system’s shortcomings, moderate candidates who can heal and lead are left in the dust following their primary losses.

There is a remedy: the open primary system. Here’s how it works. All of the candidates – regardless of their party affiliation – are on the same ballot and everyone – regardless of their party affiliation – can vote for whomever they please. Then the top two candidates face off in November. This system favors practical candidates who embody a common sense approach and it leaves the rabble-rousers out on the fringes — where they belong.

Washington, California and Louisiana currently enjoy the benefits of open primaries. The citizens love it and the party bosses hate it, so you know it’s got to be good.